Cross country skiing is a form of winter sport where participants propelled themselves across snow-covered terrain on skis. It is a popular sport in the upper Midwest US, Alaska, Canada and Northern Europe. Cross country skiing is a form of Nordic skiing. There are some skiers who take up “bushwalking on skis”, a hobby where they stay out for long periods of time and sleep in tents.

There are now many different types of cross-country competitions that involve races in different lengths and types. The Winter Olympics have events that showcase the fastest cross country skiers in the world. The sport of cross country skiing was originated in the prehistoric times in Fennoscandian countries. Skiing was introduced by Swedish and Norwegian immigrants to North America in the 1850s. Traditionally, the bamboo poles and wooden skis were all made from natural materials. The footwear used was typically sturdy leather boots that had thick soles. The skis are usually thin and long, this way the skier’s weight could be distributed equally and this would let the skier move more quickly on the snow. Cross country skiers, like alpine skiers, carry 2 poles that were normally made from fiberglass and aluminum. The more expensive ski poles are made out of carbon fiber or graphite. Ski poles have spiked ends so there is a fixed pivot when the ski poles penetrate hard surfaces. There are 3 main types of binding systems in cross country skiing; the SNS Pilot, SNS Profil, and NNN. Waxes are used on skis for specific purposes. Glide waxes make skis glide faster while kick waxes provide grip on the snow. Klisters are glue-like paste, although this isn’t for beginners, since it is very sticky.

There are also several techniques/styles of cross-country skiing. There is telemarking, skating, and classic. On prepared trails, the classic style is used often. Telemark is used for backcountry skiing.